South Africa, seeking a win to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, put the brakes on just as Australia appeared set to accelerate.

Lynn’s knock featured three fours and two sixes but he fell when hitting top gear.

The Queenslander had smacked 18 runs from four consecutive Rabada balls – a six followed by three fours – but was out next ball.

His dismissal continued a trend as Australia’s batsmen formed a series of handy stands without converting any into imposing totals.

After opener Travis Head (8) went early, Finch and Marsh, returning after missing Australia’s six-wicket loss in the series-opener in Perth because of abscess on his buttocks, featured in a bright 44-run partnership from 51 balls.

But Marsh then edged a widish Rabada delivery to gloveman Quinton de Kock.

Finch put on 30 runs with Lynn before the skipper departed, chopping a short ball from Pretorius onto his stumps.

Lynn and Carey then added 37 runs before momentum again stalled with Lynn’s dismissal.